CSCE/SEDIO.3
was important in this regard.
The growth of a democratic culture
can be fostered by society at many levels: in basic civic
education, in the media, within religious and civic movements and
organizations, in political parties, in the professions, notably the legal profession, in the judiciary, in public administration, within the armed forces and the police by securing the absolute allegiance to the civil power and democratic government.
It was also broadly recognized that the independence and authority of the judiciary was a crucial element in safeguarding
the rule of law and securing effective implementation of human rights and fundamental freedoms. An independent judiciary serves
to uphold the integrity of other democratic institutions,
reinforce their effectiveness, and prevent abuse of power.
It was also broadly recognized that, along with the
development of democratic institutions and political procedures, the reform of private law was essential in States where radical democratic reforms are being introduced. A legal foundation had
to be provided for a functioning economy, securing the rights of the individual to engage in constructive economic activity,
including the right to own property and to dispose of it under the law, alone or in association with others.
It was likewise broadly recognized that the ability of a society to satisfy the basic material needs of its population was important for the development of the democratic political process, and of a democratic culture based on shared values and goals.
II
In discussing the question of constitutional reforms, experts drew on national experiences. They noted that States choose different means for the implementation of democratic government, in response to their particular characteristics and traditions and to the circumstances of their constitutional history. As long as the core values of democratic government were assured, no
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